Turbo 2014 Maserati Quattroporte on sale from $240,000

Maserati in Australia is introducing the new twin-turbo V6 Quattroporte S and the flagship twin-turbo V8 GTS. The V8 will launch this month while the V6 will join the range in February.

Both use an all-new platform which is larger than the outgoing version, providing a more spacious cabin. It’s also more powerful and lighter weight (100kg less for the V8 and 120kg less for the V6), which means overall performance is improved in every way.

Kicking off the entry part of the range, the new V6 S comes with a 3.0-litre twin-turbo engine producing 301kW of power and 550Nm of torque. It’s able to cover 0-100km/h in just 5.1 seconds with a top speed of 285km/h.

Despite the highly capable performance, the V6 is also quite economical with an average consumption rate of 10.4L/100km. Although it sounds steep, it’s actually not too bad for a high caliber vehicle with over 300kW.

For those who are only really concerned with outright speed, the V8 GTS uses a 3.8-litre twin-turbo producing 390kW of power and 650Nm of torque (710Nm on over boost). It’s able to smash 0-100km/h in 4.7 seconds and it has a top speed of 307km/h. Fuel economy is rated at 11.8L/100km for the combined cycle.

Both models come with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, a serious six-piston front and four-piston rear brake package – Brembo on the V8 – and a sports suspension system with adaptive dampers.

Inside, the highlight of the cabin is the Maserati Touch Control multimedia screen. It’s home to all on-board functions, including the optional 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins stereo system.

There’s also a completely customisable interior program, with wood or carbon fibre trimmings, and a number of different leather and Alcantara upholstery options.

Brett is the editor and founder of PerformanceDrive. He's obsessed with driving, having played with Matchbox cars until he was tall enough to drive a real one. After initially working as a mechanic, Brett earned a degree in journalism and entered media as an editorial assistant at Top Gear Australia magazine. He then worked at CarAdvice.com.au. His dream is to live next door to the Nurburgring in Germany.